The ID card would be embedded with a silicon chip, with applications added incrementally after the government solicits public feedback.
Hong Kong Secretary for Security Regina Ip said that a new card is necessary in the first place as the computer system supporting old ID cards is becoming antiquated.
But the government prefers to introduce a "smart" ID card that offers more protection against forgery and allows secure authentication of the card holder's identity. The project is being valued at HK$3.06 billion (US$392.36 million).
Top beneficiary of the new card would be the Immigration Department, which can check validity and update temporary residents' conditions of stay electronically. It is also being touted as a way to introduce an automated passenger clearance system in future.
But further applications on the single card are being explored, including: authentication and access to Government services online; the inclusion of digital certificates for secure electronic transactions; and the use of capacity on the card for an electronic purse for financial transactions.
The concept of a single card that contains confidential information about identity and immigration status, and which may also add financial transaction details raises data privacy concerns. At the least, citizens would demand that one application on the ID card cannot access data from another.
Ip said last week that the Immigration Department would conduct Privacy Impact Assessments during the project, while the government would consult with the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data.
"The Government will take every necessary measure to ensure that the right of individuals to preserve the privacy of their personal data is protected in accordance with law and the data privacy principles," she said.
Play video
There are currently no comments for this post.